Ballinamallard United manager Whitey Anderson has re-signed the first player he brought to Ferney Park after he led the club to promotion to the Premiership in 2012.

Former Barbados international goalkeeper Alvin Rouse, who was a fans' favourite for two years with the Mallards, spent last season with Dungannon Swifts and has returned to the fold as Whitey Anderson's fifth new signing ahead of next season. It will be Ballinamallard's fourth season in the top flight.

Rouse made a total of 67 appearances during his first spell at the club.

During the first season the Mallards with Rouse as number one were the surprise package of the Premiership, beating Linfield twice at Windsor Park and the only team to beat eventual champions Cliftonville at Solitude.

The Mallards finished a creditable fifth in the table in their inaugural season, but suffered the infamous 'second season syndrome' when they finished 10th and three points above the play-off spot.

Last season the Mallards avoided the play-off by nine points and secured ninth place.

Anderson said: "I am glad to announce that Alvin Rouse will return to Ferney Park for the incoming season. I believe his experience was missed at the club last season and in his first season he was voted one of the top three keepers in the league having 18 clean sheets.

"I am sure that Alvin recognises that in his second season his hunger and drive had somewhat diminished and he now wants to prove again that he is one of the top keepers at this level. He is only 35 years of age and his return is a great boost."

Belfast Telegraph

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